Patricia Fonstad
Clinical Specialty Area: Musculoskeletal
Year of Graduation: 1973
Areas of Interest: Complex chronic pain conditions, particularly those of spinal origin. Many of these clients have hypermobilities that we treat with prolotherapy. I have worked with prolotherapy for over 28 years and have done research on it as part of my Doctor of Science degree. Recently, I am interested in learning more on the role of the psychological aspect of chronic pain as it is clear to me that treating the “end organ” in many of these complex chronic pain clients is not successful so we should turn our attention to the brain and the cortical reorganization.
Why did you pursue the designation?
I pursued this designation because I feel that it represents a major step for our profession and I wanted to be on the leading edge of that. I feel that many in our profession contribute in a profound manner to the standard of care of our clients and the profession as a whole. Those in the profession who work at this level should have some mechanism to be recognised for their work and contribution.
What was most valuable for you while undergoing the CPA Clinical Specialty Program?
I found writing the clinical reflections the most valuable. It was interesting for me to look back on my career and reflect on the events that have shaped my career and me personally.
I feel that many in our profession contribute in a profound manner to the standard of care of our clients and the profession as a whole. Those in the profession who work at this level should have some mechanism to be recognised for their work and contribution.
Where do you see the profession in 25 years?
In 25 years from now I will have long since retired but I anticipate that our role as primary care providers will have expanded. The role of extended practice will have evolved. If the growth in the past 25 years is anything to judge from the next 25 years will evolve further and faster.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Be the best that you can be and to never accept mediocrity. It is a mantra that I pass on the students and new graduates in physiotherapy.
Biography
Pat Fonstad is a member of the CPA and a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy. She is certified in Medical Acupuncture, Intramuscular Stimulation, Sports Physiotherapy and Capnography. She has a Bachelor of Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba and a Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy from Andrews University (graduated with honors). She is a Clinical Specialist in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and an assessor for the Clinical Specialist program of the CPA. She teaches in the Doctor of Science program for Andrews University. She was one of the developers and initial instructors for the Diagnostic Imaging course at the University of Alberta. This course is required for physiotherapists to be able to order diagnostic imaging in Alberta. She is an instructor for the Orthopaedic Manual Therapy post-professional program at McMaster University. Since graduating, she has worked in many public and private settings. She has also worked many international, national and local sporting events. She currently works as a private practitioner treating complex chronic pain conditions and continues her role with online teaching.
When she is not working she enjoys reading, traveling, alpine skiing, hiking, and biking.